A young Arab who resides in Havana and is studying medicine in Cuba has captured the hearts of thousands on Instagram. With a great sense of humor and a command of Cuban slang, he shared his journey from the island to Jordan.
In the video, titled “From Cuba to Jordan, my first video speaking Spanish like a Cuban,” 22-year-old Zakaria introduces himself. "I'm Arab and I live here in Havana," he states. Amid laughter, he notes how people often mistake him for a native Cuban and even ask if he’s a lifelong Habanero.
The video kicks off at Havana's airport, where Zakaria explains he arrived early to avoid waiting in line, admitting he was “very bored” while waiting for his flight. During his journey, he witnessed a special moment when an airline crew member proposed to his girlfriend on board. “That was so sweet,” he said, using typical Cuban street expressions.
After a nine-hour flight, he landed in Madrid, where his first mission was to find food. In a humorous tone, he recounted applying skincare to look "handsome and charming" before boarding the next flight to Amman, the capital of Jordan. Amid jokes, he sang “mi tuti, mi tuti” and described the shawarma he ate upon arrival as something “de pinga,” a popular Cuban expression.
However, the part that really caught his followers' attention came in the comments section. When asked if he studies medicine in Cuba, he replied, “Yes! Medicine in Cuba is top-notch, even though many people deny it.” The comments were filled with astonishment and laughter. Remarks like “He sounds and looks Cuban,” “Asere, practice the R a bit and you’re Cuban,” “This guy is well-trained,” and “I thought I was the only Jordanian Cuban that existed” were just a few of the messages he received.
Beyond the jokes, the video highlights a fascinating cultural exchange, featuring a young Arab who not only learned Spanish in Cuba but also embraced the island's expressions, gestures, and customs. His story, filled with humor and authenticity, illustrates how everyday interactions transcend borders and create connections that go beyond language.
Now back in Jordan, Zakaria continues to share his daily life with an ever-growing audience of both Cuban and international fans, who eagerly await his next posts to hear him speak "like a true asere."
Zakaria's Cultural Journey and Cuban Experience
How did Zakaria become popular on Instagram?
Zakaria gained popularity on Instagram by sharing a humorous video in which he uses Cuban slang and humor while documenting his journey from Cuba to Jordan.
What was a memorable moment during Zakaria's flight?
During his flight, Zakaria witnessed a touching moment when an airline crew member proposed to his girlfriend on board, which he described using Cuban street expressions.
What cultural impact has Zakaria's experience had?
Zakaria's experience showcases a unique cultural exchange where he adopted Cuban expressions and customs, illustrating how interactions can break down cultural barriers and foster connections.